Giving an artistic touch to saint-poet’s couplets

“We want to bring out the relevance of Tirukkural in today’s world. Art works inspired by current political and social events have been displayed along with the relevant 133 adhigharams (chapters) of Tirukkural,” says artist K Madhavan, adding that visitors are provided with the meaning for the couplets, treated as world epic, as well.

One of the works displayed at the expo portrays the evils of social media.

“There are complaints of personal photos and obscene content being shared online. But, Tiruvalluvar has said that one must be careful with their acts warning that misconduct could bring in shame,” Madhavan said.

Adultery, crimes against women, lust and its fallout are some of the other issues touched upon by the artist. Madhavan has also kept a paper mache work inspired by the strong pitch for State’s autonomy made by Tiruvalluvar and the late Dravidian leader C N Annadurai.

“Exhibits based on evils of selfies, the Sterlite firing incident and adultery have been receiving good response. Tirukkural is still relevant even after 2000 years,” says P Hari Krishna of the Symbol company, that has roped in the young artists.

According to him, a music album on Tamil culture titled Thaai Engal Thamizh Naade by musician Santhosh Narayanan is under production, while a special Tirukkural project aimed at attracting children is also under pipeline.

There are also plans to launch a mobile application on Tirukkural in Tamil, English and Hindi on April 14). The exhibition, taking place at the Nungambakkam art centre, will be open for the public till January 26.